Houston residents woke up to a new reality this August: the city’s first drought contingency measures in recent years. With record-breaking temperatures and a significant drop in rainfall, Houston has activated Stage One of its Drought Contingency Plan, marking a critical step in protecting the city’s water supply.
The decision comes as most of Houston’s service area faces moderate to severe drought conditions. This comprehensive guide explains what these measures mean for residents and how everyone can contribute to preserving this essential resource.
Why Houston Activated Its Drought Plan
The numbers tell a stark story. Houston has experienced record-setting temperatures above 90 degrees for the past month, coupled with dramatically reduced rainfall. These extreme weather patterns have pushed the region into drought conditions that threaten the stability of the city’s water supply.
Houston Public Works monitors several key indicators when determining drought response levels. The current situation triggered Stage One implementation due to:
- Sustained high temperatures exceeding normal seasonal averages
- Below-normal precipitation levels over consecutive months
- Increased water demand from residential and commercial customers
- Declining reservoir levels affecting long-term water security
The city’s Drought Contingency Plan serves as an early warning system, helping prevent more severe water shortages that could disrupt daily life and economic activity.
Understanding Stage One Water Restrictions
Stage One measures focus on voluntary conservation efforts designed to reduce water demand by approximately 5%. While these restrictions remain voluntary, they lay the groundwork for community-wide water stewardship.
Outdoor Watering Schedule
The most visible change affects outdoor watering times and frequency. Residents must now limit lawn irrigation to twice weekly during specific hours and days:
Timing: All outdoor watering must occur between 7 PM and 5 AM to minimize evaporation during peak heat hours.
Schedule by Address:
- Odd-numbered addresses: Saturdays and Wednesdays
- Even-numbered addresses: Sundays and Thursdays
- All other customers (apartments, businesses): Tuesdays and Fridays
Exceptions and Flexibility
The plan includes reasonable exceptions for essential plant care. Residents can use handheld garden hoses anytime to water flower beds and trees requiring additional attention. This flexibility recognizes that established landscaping represents significant investment and environmental benefits.
Homeowners associations operating on master meters should follow individual home address schedules for watering common areas, ensuring consistent application across all residential areas.
Practical Water Conservation Tips for Houston Residents
Beyond outdoor restrictions, residents can implement numerous strategies to reduce water consumption while maintaining comfortable lifestyles.
Indoor Conservation Strategies
Fix Leaks Immediately: A single dripping faucet wastes over 3,000 gallons annually. Check toilets for silent leaks using food coloring in the tank – colored water appearing in the bowl indicates repair needs.
Optimize Appliance Usage: Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads. These appliances account for nearly 20% of household water consumption.
Reduce Shower Time: Cutting shower time by just two minutes saves approximately 1,700 gallons per person annually.
Install Efficient Fixtures: WaterSense-labeled products reduce water usage without sacrificing performance. Houston residents can contact WaterConservation@houstontx.gov for free 1.25gpm showerheads while supplies last.
Outdoor Water Management
Use Smart Irrigation: The WaterMyYard.org app provides personalized watering recommendations based on local weather conditions, soil type, and irrigation systems. This free tool helps prevent overwatering while maintaining healthy lawns.
Recommended Watering Duration: Limit hose-end sprinklers to one hour daily and automatic systems to 40 minutes, following the designated schedule.
Landscape Strategically: Native and climate-adapted plants require less supplemental watering. Adding mulch reduces soil evaporation and retains moisture longer.
Avoid Non-Essential Uses: Skip washing driveways, patios, and cars at home. Commercial car washes often recycle water, making them more efficient alternatives.
Technology Tools for Water Management
Houston provides several digital resources to help residents track and reduce water consumption.
Water Consumption Awareness Program
Available at houstonwater.org, this program allows customers to:
- Monitor daily and monthly water usage patterns
- Set up leak alerts for early detection
- Compare consumption with similar households
- Access personalized conservation recommendations
WaterMyYard.org App
This sophisticated tool factors multiple variables to provide precise irrigation guidance:
- Current weather conditions and forecasts
- Soil moisture levels
- Plant water requirements
- Irrigation system efficiency ratings
Regular use of this app can reduce outdoor water consumption by 15-20% while maintaining landscape health.
Community Impact and Importance
Water conservation extends beyond individual households to protect Houston’s long-term growth and resilience. The city serves over 2.3 million people through its water system, making collective action essential for success.
Economic Benefits
Reduced water demand helps:
- Delay expensive infrastructure expansion projects
- Lower treatment and distribution costs
- Maintain affordable water rates for all customers
- Preserve industrial and commercial water access
Environmental Advantages
Conservation efforts protect:
- Regional reservoir levels supporting wildlife habitats
- Groundwater resources for future generations
- Energy consumption associated with water treatment and distribution
- Stream flows supporting aquatic ecosystems
What Triggers More Restrictive Measures
Understanding escalation triggers helps residents appreciate the importance of Stage One compliance. Stage Two implementation would occur if Houston experiences:
- Combined surface water storage dropping below 24 months of supply
- Current water production reaching 80% of treatment capacity
- Loss of approximately 20% of available treatment capacity
- System-wide water pressure falling to 45 PSI or below
Stage Two measures become mandatory with potential fines for violations, making voluntary compliance now crucial for avoiding stricter future restrictions.
Resources and Support
Houston provides multiple channels for residents seeking conservation assistance:
Direct Support: Contact WaterConservation@houstontx.gov for questions about restrictions, conservation programs, or technical assistance.
Educational Materials: The water conservation webpage at publicworks.houstontx.gov/waterconservation offers comprehensive guides, tips, and program information.
Free Conservation Items: Limited supplies of water-efficient fixtures and rain barrels are available through various city programs.
HOA Guidance: Property managers and homeowners associations can receive specific guidance for implementing conservation measures across residential communities.
Taking Action: Your Role in Houston’s Water Future
Houston’s drought response depends on community-wide participation. Every gallon saved contributes to maintaining adequate supplies for essential services, economic activity, and quality of life.
Start with simple changes today:
- Download the WaterMyYard.org app and adjust your irrigation schedule
- Sign up for the Water Consumption Awareness Program to track your usage
- Conduct a home water audit to identify and fix leaks
- Share this information with neighbors, friends, and family members
The voluntary nature of Stage One restrictions relies on civic responsibility and community awareness. By embracing these measures now, Houston residents can help prevent more restrictive mandatory measures while building long-term water resilience.
Your actions matter. Together, we can navigate this drought period while protecting Houston’s water future for generations to come.